Hybrid Seed Production in Tomato, Emasculation

Hybridization
Hybrid Seed Production in Tomato

*Step #1. Emasculation*
Self-pollination cannot be allowed in hybrid seed production. The female flower must be pollinated by the pollen from the male line!
	To prevent self-pollination, remove the stamens from the flower buds of the female line before they shed their pollen. This process is called emasculation. A tomato flower shown before and after emasculation is shown.

	Emasculation begins about 55-65 days after sowing. Flower buds from the second cluster which will open in 2-3 days are chosen for emasculation. The petals will be slightly out of the flower bud but not opened, and the corolla color is slightly yellow or even paler. Flowers from the first cluster are removed.
	Sterilize the forceps, scissors and hands by dipping them in 95% alcohol before emasculation is started. If gloves are used, these should also be dipped in 95% alcohol to prevent pollen contamination.
	Use sharp-pointed forceps to force open the selected buds. Then, split open the anther cone.
	Carefully remove the anther cone out of the bud, leaving the calyx, corolla and pistil.
	To help identify the hybrid fruits from selfed fruits at the time of harvest, cut a few of the sepals using a scissors.